* The only guidebook to stairway walks in Seattle * Explore Seattle neighborhoods in a new way with these interesting walks in Seattle * Written for people of all ages who want to get outside, exercise, and explore*Learn more -->

A few days ago, we walked the "Eastlake, North Capitol Hill and Portage Bay" route (Chapter 9). Among its many attractions is the Howe stairway, longest in Seattle with 388 steps; Colonnade Mountain Bike Skills Park underneath I-5; and peaceful Astrid's Park, a tiny shoreline park next to Portage Bay.

One of our very favorite attractions on this route is the Blaine stairway (293 steps), which gives urban explorers access to beautiful 1-acre Streissguth Gardens. The gardens were our special target for the day, and we weren't disappointed. Below are a few pictures, but a personal visit is highly recommended!